Round 7 drama, milestone celebrations and the Jesse Southwell Broncos bombshell
In the latest episode of Footy for Real, our hosts dive into a packed Round 7 that saw historic milestones, injury heartbreak and a transfer rumour that has sent shockwaves through the league.
Celebrating the 50 Game Pioneers
The round began with a celebration of longevity and consistency as the NRLW saw its first players reach the 50 game milestone. In an eight year old competition that started with just four games a season, the achievement carries significant weight.
"There's only three girls who have made it there so far in the eight years that the NRLW has been running. So that is a huge milestone. A massive congratulations to Alli Brigenshaw, Isabelle Kelly and Keeley Davis."
The hosts noted that Brigenshaw, often the face of the women's game, was a fitting first recipient of the honour.
"If you know women's rugby league, you know Alli Brigenshaw. That's just the reality of it. She's braved the platform. She's a stalwart. She's absolutely a leader."
The Jesse Southwell Rumour
Perhaps the biggest talking point of the episode was a bombshell rumour regarding Newcastle’s homegrown star, Jesse Southwell. Speculation is mounting that the young playmaker could be heading north to join a rival powerhouse in 2026.
"I heard a rumour that Jesse Southwell might be going to the Broncos in 2026. I had not even heard a whisper about this at clubland. It would be a huge curveball. For them to lose both Southwell sisters would be absolutely crazy."
The hosts discussed whether the big clubs are becoming too dominant by attracting all the top tier talent.
"Is it a bad thing about being in a really good team who's winning all the time is having to share the Dally M points? Some of the top clubs just keep attracting these really, really good players. Until we go full time, we don't really know where the game's at."
Injury Heartbreak for a Legend
While the round had its highs, it also saw a devastating moment for Roosters veteran Corban Baxter. Having already overcome significant hurdles in her career, her latest setback on the field left the panel emotional.
"Sending all of our love to Corby. It's just what an awful thing to have is a knee injury. Our game can be so good to us and so cruel to us at the same time. She is a player who has had a few injuries in her career, and every single time nothing but professional, nothing but determined."
Breakout Stars and First Wins
On a more positive note, the round saw the Wests Tigers and Canberra Raiders finally secure their first wins of the season. For the Tigers, it was rookie Caitlin Prior who stole the show after a successful shift to fullback.
"I honestly can't talk about Caitlin enough. That girl is on fire at the moment. She absolutely killed it. She ran for 256 metres. She saved tries. I think she needs to stay there."
The Raiders' victory was equally heartwarming, led by the influence of the Temara sisters.
"The Raiders are finally on the board. They've got their first win. A well deserved win too. Zahara led the team. Her passing and her pass selection is so good. Shante tackles everything that runs at her."
Looking Ahead to Round 8
As the competition heats up, the panel looked toward the upcoming matchups, identifying the battle of the locks between Kennedy Cherington and Olivia Kernik as a highlight.
"Kennedy Cherington won't back down from anyone. She's definitely going to be trying to poke the bear and get Olivia Kernik. We're going to love the fire. They're two very different players but make a huge impact."
With the Broncos and Roosters continuing their dominant form, the question remains whether any of the chasing pack can bridge the gap before finals.
"The competition looks scary with the Broncos firing. It's starting to click and it's not taking as long now. Be aware for the next teams who have got to play them."
Watch the full episode on Fanatics TV.
